Overview

Forensic PsychologyOverview

This comprehensive program prepares counselors for positions in the fast-growing field of forensic psychology—providing clinical counseling and advocacy services in legal and criminal justice settings. Adler University offers a degree that uniquely blends the wellness-model approach of counseling practice, with a psychological lens on the influence of psychopathy and social-cultural factors.

We train practitioners to work in criminal justice, mental health, and corrections, with a focus on improving communication between the clinician and individuals in the criminal justice system. Our graduates work in law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, private law firms, court systems, child advocacy centers, behavioral health units, and mental health agencies.

Our rigorous curriculum emphasizes theoretical knowledge, strong clinical skills, and the civic responsibility that socially responsible practitioners hold within and outside the criminal justice system. Students learn the fundamentals of criminal psychology, police psychology, legal psychology, and correctional psychology. Specialized coursework in forensic evaluation focuses on the treatment of forensic populations; aggression and social deviance; and trauma-focused therapies, for working with individuals coping with substance abuse, domestic violence, rape crisis, and sex offenses.

We provide an immersive learning experience with a diverse faculty. Professors are practicing clinicians experienced in the field of forensic psychology, as well as scholars and researchers. Learning takes place in small, intimate classes, and through the exceptional training opportunities we offer.

Through strong faculty support, a dedicated Training Department, and the University’s partnerships with hundreds of community agencies, our counseling students gain valuable practicum and field experience in a wide variety of specialized settings including at law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, court systems, child advocacy centers, behavioral health units, substance use treatment programs, and community mental health agencies.

Our program’s cohort model creates camaraderie among students, and fosters interpersonal growth and skills development, both inside and outside of the classroom. Likewise, our individualized advising helps students succeed throughout their Adler University experience.

Licensure

Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for:

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in the state of Illinois.

The Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credential in Illinois, upon completing all necessary post-graduate training. Because licensure requirements vary by state, students who anticipate applying for licensure elsewhere may need to acquire additional practicum hours or courses beyond the Adler University degree requirements. All students are encouraged to work with their faculty advisors and plan their curriculum accordingly.

The National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential, as well as sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) before graduation. Upon degree completion, students can submit their passing NCE scores to the State of Illinois licensing board, toward the fulfillment of state licensing requirements.

Admission Requirements

Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited US institution or a comparable degree from an international institution

A grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate and graduate coursework

Applicants who meet the admission standards will be invited for an interview with faculty